Former FC Barcelona manager Jordi Cruyff has said that praising current coach Hansi Flick does not require “putting others down”, referring to Xavi Hernández. Cruyff made the remarks at the municipal ground in Aiguadolç (Sitges), on the tenth anniversary of his father Johan’s last match, where a plaque was unveiled on the Johan Cruyff promenade.
The former Barca sporting director highlighted the importance of Xavi’s work, recalling that he “also achieved significant milestones” such as winning a championship under “very difficult circumstances”, while also recognizing the contributions of Ronald Koeman during his mandate.
He noted: “There was a coach who didn’t win titles, but who gave debuts to talents like Gavi, Pedri or Araujo. Everything is a process, and evolution is part of it.” When asked if Flick embodies the ‘Culé’ DNA that his father represented, Jordi Cruyff remarked that the German coach “is not far from the philosophy”, as this DNA encompasses more than just style of play: it reflects a mission: “If you want to dominate and give playing time to players from the academy, these principles remain intact: this is Barça’s DNA.”
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Additionally, Cruyff highlighted Flick’s promotion of La Masia’s young talents, saying academy players are “grasping opportunities head-on”, something Barca fans appreciate when they see their young players progress successfully.
The event, organized by the Johan Cruyff Foundation, was attended by Danny Cruyff, the widow of the legendary Dutch footballer and coach, and received the support of the Sitges City Council. The tribute concluded with the ‘Johan Cruyff Memorial’ match which saw former stars of Barça’s legendary ‘Dream Team’ including José Mari Bakero, Joan Andoni Goikoetxea, Eusebio Sacristán and Julio Salinas , among others.
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